good general cover letters

How to Write a General Cover Letter (w/ Templates & Tips!)

You're on the hunt for a job, and your resume is all set.

It's the perfect summary of your professional journey so far, and you’re hoping it will land you at least one of the gigs you’re applying to.

There's just one thing left - you need to write a cover letter that fits your resume like a glove.

And, as you’re applying for several positions, you likely don’t want to start your cover letter from scratch every time. Instead, you’d rather learn how to write a general cover letter that you can tweak to fit many applications.

Well, we’re here to help you learn how to do just that.

In this article, we're going to cover:

• What Is a General Cover Letter
• How to Write a General Cover Letter
• General Cover Letter Examples

...and more!

Let's get started.

What is a General Cover Letter?

A general cover letter is a flexible document that’s designed to accompany your CV or resume during a job application.

Unlike a regular cover letter, a general cover letter isn’t tailored to one job.

You can personalize general cover letters without being too specific about a position and easily adapt them to suit applications for different professions and industries.

The structure of a general cover letter makes it more versatile because it includes placeholders (or ‘blanks’) that you can easily swap out for job-specific details.

For example, your general cover letter could have a blank where the company’s name or the specific industry would be written, so you can quickly modify it before sending it out with different job applications.

General cover letters allow you to strike a balance between broad appeal and leaving room for a touch of customization, so you don’t have to struggle against writer’s block every time you try to write a new cover letter during your job hunt .

Still haven’t finished your resume? Check out our full guide on how to make a resume !

General Vs Generic Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter that can be used for different job applications might make you think you should write a generic cover letter.

But there’s a huge difference between writing a general cover letter and a generic cover letter.

A general cover letter is adaptable, and you can customize it to apply for different jobs and industries. The key to a general cover letter is that it has parts that you can easily change, such as the industry you’re applying to or the title of the job you’re after.

These gaps let you quickly tailor each cover letter to the specific position you want. They also manage to show employers that you've thought about how you would fit into their company without having to write a cover letter from scratch.

A generic cover letter, on the other hand, is a cover letter that’s the same for every job application.

Generic cover letters don’t change to match different jobs or companies. Because they aren’t tailored, they rarely impress hiring managers or show them why you’d be a good match for the job.

While generic cover letters are a one-and-done job, they’re not a particularly well-done job at all. Generic cover letters come off as impersonal and forgettable, so we recommend steering clear of them during your job search and instead going for a general cover letter that you can tailor.

Want a Standout Cover Letter? Use a Template!

Making sure your cover letter leaves a good impression on the hiring manager can feel overwhelming.

You have to carefully adjust the layout, tweak the page margins, set the line spacing, choose the most appropriate font, and make sure your text never spills over to page two.

Well, it doesn’t have to be that hard.

Just try one of our cover letter templates !

Each of our templates is made in collaboration with leading HR specialists to make sure your application is industry-friendly 

and stylish. You can even use our resume templates and pick a cover letter template for a matching set.

When Should You Use a General Cover Letter?

There are a few cases when you can use a general cover letter as opposed to a uniquely tailored cover letter for each job application.

These include:

#1. When You’re Applying for More Than One Position

If you’re applying for more than one position with the same employer, a general cover letter can help you showcase your interest in contributing to the company in various roles.

In this case, instead of writing a cover letter to fill in the blanks for separate job applications, you should aim for a single, thorough general cover letter that’s tailored to the different positions in the same company you’re applying for.

You can use your general cover letter to communicate your adaptability and enthusiasm for being part of the organization, not just filling a specific position, which can be a great angle for an entry-level cover letter .

Unlike a regular cover letter, which you tailor to the exact position you’re applying for, a general cover letter allows you to highlight skills and experiences that are relevant across all the roles you’re targeting. Use it to emphasize your overall potential as an asset to the company and demonstrate your ability to fit into multiple teams or projects.

Since you’re not focusing on a specific job, your general cover letter should instead show the employer how your personal and professional values align with those of the company regardless of the specific position. Focusing on your broad compatibility with the employer positions you as a valuable candidate.

#2. When You’re Attending a Job Fair

At a job fair, your goal is to present yourself as a good candidate to multiple employers.

In a dynamic setting like this, you have to interact with various companies, so a general cover letter can help you quickly adapt your approach to each potential employer you meet. If you do it right, you can highlight skills and experiences that are applicable across different industries.

A general cover letter also helps you make a strong first impression. Job fairs see their share of resumes, but having a cover letter ready to go puts you one step ahead of other candidates vying for the same job.

Instead of tailoring a cover letter for each company you might be interested in, you can focus on customizing key sections that are relevant to specific jobs or industries. For example, if you’re looking for a job as an accountant , you can easily write a general accountant cover letter and make minimal changes before applying for another job.

This can save you valuable time, and it lets you engage with more hiring managers at the job fair, so you can cast a wider net.

Not sure what to do at your first networking event? Check out these 75+ questions you can use at networking events to help break the ice.

#3. When You’re Applying Through a Referral

If you’re using your professional network to find your next job, a general cover letter can come in handy.

Applying for a job through a referral often means you don’t have a job ad to reference. So, when writing your cover letter, you should focus on your most impressive skills and relevant professional experiences.

Next, it’s time to remove all those blanks and placeholders and add details that will make the hiring manager notice your application.

The more you know about the company, the better. Researching the employer means that even if you don’t know the exact details of the job, you can still highlight what makes you a great candidate for the company in general.

Take the time to also mention your connection with the person who referred you. This can add a personal touch and show that someone who’s already part of the company thinks highly of you.

Trying to write a cover letter for your first internship ? Check out our detailed guide to learn how!

General Cover Letter Text Template

If you’re not sure how to write a general cover letter from scratch, there’s no need to worry. You can borrow our very own general cover letter text template!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter text template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the variables for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Professional Title]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Full Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years].
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Steps to Writing a General Cover Letter

Now that you’ve seen what a general cover letter looks like, it’s time to write your own.

Just follow these steps, and you’ll be done in no time:

#1. Add Contact Information

At the top of your cover letter, you should include all the information required for the hiring manager to reach you.

This includes:

• Full Name. We recommend you bold your name and place it at the top of the page.
• Professional Job Title. If you’re applying for more than one job, you might have to swap this out regularly. Make sure it matches the specific position you're applying for.
• Email Address. Include a professional and straightforward email address, preferably a version of your first and last name. (E.g.: [email protected], not [email protected])
• Phone Number. Make sure there are no typos in your phone number, so the hiring manager can easily contact you.
• Location. Typically, your city and state/country are enough information. But if you're looking for remote work or are willing to relocate, make sure to specify that somewhere.
• Relevant Links (optional). Feel free to add links to any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn profile, GitHub, or an online portfolio.

Except for the job title, you don’t need to change your contact information between applications. But you also need to add the hiring manager’s contact information.

Customize this for each cover letter you plan to send:

• Company Name. Always include the name of the company you're applying for.
• Hiring Manager's Name. If possible, find the name of the hiring manager for the job you're interested in.
• Hiring Manager's Title. The hiring managers for different companies will likely have different roles. Some will be head of the department you want to join, while others will be part of the HR team. If you want one less thing to swap out, you can simply keep the job title of the hiring manager in your cover letter as “Hiring Manager.”
• Location. The general location of the company, such as the city and state/country, is enough. We don’t recommend going into more detail for your general cover letter.
• Date of Writing (optional). Including the date you wrote your cover letter can add an extra professional touch to your application, so it’s something to consider.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Even in your general cover letter, you should skip the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.”

Instead, give your cover letter a more personalized greeting. If possible, address the hiring manager by name .

You might need to do some research for that. Check the job ad, company website, or LinkedIn page to find out who’s hiring for the role you want. Then, just swap out your placeholder for their full name.

However, you might not have the time to do that. If you’re at a job fair or you just can’t find the name of the hiring manager, you don’t have to worry.

It’s perfectly acceptable to address your cover letter as “Dear Hiring Manager” or even address the company as a whole, like “Dear Company X.”

Take your cover letter to the next level by using these 21+ cover letter tips !

#3. Start with a Strong Opening

Hiring managers tend to skim through cover letters before deciding if they’re worth reading, so your general cover letter should always have an eye-catching opening paragraph.

You should start your cover letter by introducing who you are and why you’re interested in the specific position. Then, mention an impressive achievement or crucial skill that shows you would be an ideal candidate for the role.

We recommend shortlisting several of your most impressive skills and achievements and swapping them out for each other depending on what best matches the specific job you’re tailoring your cover letter for.

Just remember to keep your opening paragraph short and sweet. You’ll have the opportunity to give the hiring manager more details later.

#4. Use the Body for Details

When writing a general cover letter, you might have a hard time figuring out how to craft the body.

This is where all the details about you as a candidate and what you know about the company should go.

But don’t worry! All you need to do is follow these tips:

• Explain what you can do for the employer. Talk about your most impressive skills and how you can use them to contribute to the company’s work.
• Mention what you like about the job or industry. Focus on what you enjoy about the specific job or industry you’re aiming for.
• Be enthusiastic about joining their team. Express genuine enthusiasm about joining their team, as well as confidence that you can make a meaningful contribution.
• Use proactive language. Swap out cliche phrases for eye-catching action verbs and power words to make your cover letter pop.

Depending on how much time you have, you can research each employer in-depth and provide more details that show why you’re the best candidate according to each of these points.

Need more inspiration? Check out dozens of cover letter examples for different professions !

#5. Conclude It Professionally

Once you write the main body of your general cover letter, all you have to do is prepare a conclusion.

The end of your cover letter should leave the hiring manager confident that you’re the right person for the job.

You can do that by either summarizing your main selling points, like your top skills and most impressive achievements or by reminding them how you believe you can contribute to the company.

We recommend leaving a portion of your conclusion blank so you can tailor it for the specific job you’re applying for and leave the best impression possible on the hiring manager.

Next, include a call to action. This can be a polite prompt for the hiring manager to reach out to you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.

There’s no need to personalize your call to action—it can be simple and universal across all your applications. Finally, include a professional closing line and sign your name underneath to seal the deal on your cover letter.

Here’s an example:

I look forward to discussing how I may contribute to your business, so please don’t hesitate to contact me at your earliest convenience.

Best regards,

Cameron Pearson

General Cover Letter FAQs

Still have some questions about general cover letters? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below!

#1. Is a generic cover letter okay?

You should never send a generic cover letter with your job application.

Generic cover letters don’t have any personalization that can show your genuine interest in the specific job or company. In fact, they come across as impersonal and show a lack of effort , which can make hiring managers reject your job application altogether.

You should always tailor your cover letter for each job so you can highlight the relevant skills and professional experiences that will impress the employer. This shows that you've done your homework” and that you’re genuinely enthusiastic about the position.

Even a slightly customized general cover letter is always going to be better than a generic cover letter.

Your general cover letter should still address the employer's needs and make a strong case for your application. It's your best tool for making a memorable first impression, and that’s something a generic cover letter simply won’t help you achieve.

#2. Should a cover letter be simple?

Yes, as a rule, cover letters should be kept simple.

The main focus of any cover letter should be its content. Make sure you keep your formatting clean , with an easy-to-read font and plenty of white space, so the hiring manager can quickly find the essential information.

If you’re applying for a more traditional industry, like law or finance , we recommend sticking to a minimalistic cover letter template. Bold colors or flashy fonts just don’t match those professions.

However, if you’re applying to an industry where creativity is valued, such as graphic design , you can try a more customized template. A strategically placed pop of color could make your cover letter stand out.

#3. How do you format a general cover letter?

A general cover letter is structured with blanks and placeholder information that you can easily swap out depending on the job application.

Make sure you include a place for the hiring manager’s contact information, the company’s name, the date of writing, and the title of the specific position you’re applying for.

Keep the text of your general cover letter separated into neat paragraphs so you can find and swap out the placeholders quickly and the hiring manager can easily navigate and read it later.

#4. Do employers read cover letters?

Yes, employers do read cover letters.

Regardless of whether the job ad explicitly asks for one, you should always submit a cover letter .

Once the hiring manager goes through the initial resume screening, they might use cover letters to decide among candidates they’re on the fence about.

That said, hiring managers might not read the entire cover letter in detail immediately, which is why your opening paragraph is crucial. You want to make sure to catch their attention right off the bat, so they want to read more about you.

If they skim through your cover letter and don’t see any relevant keywords or qualifications, they might skip your cover letter, and your application could get tossed in the ‘no’ pile.

#5. How long should a general cover letter be?

Your general cover letter can range from a half-page to one full page. On average, a cover letter should always be between 250 and 400 words .

The cover letter is your first chance to communicate who you are to the hiring manager and why you’re the right candidate for the job, using your own words. If you don’t consider the standard cover letter length, you could leave the hiring manager with a bad impression.

A good cover letter gets your point across quickly without delving into too many details the hiring manager could get lost in. If you go over the recommended length, the hiring manager might never actually bother reading your cover letter at all.

Key Takeaways

And you’ve made it to the end of our article!

Now you know all there is to know about writing a general cover letter. Hopefully, you feel confident about writing the perfect cover letter and landing your dream job!

But before we go, let’s quickly recap our main points:

• General cover letters can usually be applied to different job openings, industries, and employers with minimal tailoring. We recommend writing one template with placeholders or blanks that you can swap out for details as necessary.
• A general cover letter doesn’t need as much tailoring as writing a cover letter from scratch, but you should still put effort into it. Sending the same generic text to every employer is a huge mistake that could cost you a job opportunity.
• Formatting your general cover letter can be time-consuming. Instead of spending valuable time on the layout, consider using one of our cover letter templates instead.
• You’re most likely to need a general cover letter when applying for more than one job at the same company when applying for a job through a referral, or during a job fair.

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How to Create a General Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

In This Guide:

Template for general cover letter, 5 tips to create a master cover letter template, general cover letter examples: entry-level, creative, and career change, how to create a general cover letter: key insights.

You've decided that you're going to strike out in a new direction, hit up several job fairs, and find several new positions to apply for.

But you don't want to spend the time to create a new cover letter from scratch every time you apply.

This is where a general cover letter template can help you out.

Creating a general cover letter, also called a master cover letter, can allow you to minimize the time you take to write each cover letter for each individual job, while also allowing you to create a personalized cover letter which tells your story .

A master cover letter template is a multipurpose document which promotes all of your skills and work experience, while also pointing to major highlights from your resume.

In this article, we will touch on:

• What a  template for a general cover letter looks like.
• How to create a general cover letter without it becoming generic.
• What to do if a cover letter isn't required.
• Examples of different cover letter templates tailored to the needs of entry level, career-change, and creative job positions.

Want to save time by creating a custom general cover letter? Enhancv has over 500+ Cover letter examples updated for 2022 . Check it out, and you'll be able to find tips to create your own master cover letter.

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[your name]

[phone number]

[email address]

[hiring manager's name]

[hiring manager's position within the company]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Dear [Hiring manager's name]

I recently found the listing for [job position title] and I was excited to apply for the position because [company name] is a major player in the field. As I examined more about your company through your website, I learned that my skills and abilities make me a valuable asset to your company. I also feel like my personality and work style would allow me to fit seamlessly into the culture at your workplace.

Let's talk a bit more about why I feel like I'm the perfect candidate. The application for this position that I found on [name of place, i.e. company website, job board] states that the ideal candidate would have proficiency in [mention a unique skill or specilization that you have], which is also an area of expertise that I have gained experience in. I currently work at [name of current company], where I have significantly contributed to the overall organization of the company by [Skill or Task]. In fact, during this [Period of Time], I've worked with a team who has raised our [Relevant Goal] by [%]. This was a major key performance indicator for my team and me, and we significantly contributed to the overall goals of the company.

Over my career, I have prided myself on my ability to problem solve and adapt to any situation, as well as lead groups of team members to complete their goals. Given my track record with [skill], I've helped establish a culture of success at [Current Company].

Thank you for taking the time to read this cover letter. I'm really looking forward to learning more about the [Position name] role. If you need any more information from me on my end, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

[Your Full Name]

If you want to create a master cover letter, one that you will use for multiple positions, then you should create a personalized document which can be easily altered to add new details which apply to the position.

The best cover letters are ones that showcase both the passion you have for the position, and the relevant skills that you bring to the table that make you the ideal candidate.

You can do this even when keeping 90% of the words the same.

Don’t believe me?

Here are some tips to keep in mind when crafting a master cover letter:

1. Minimize Work By Keeping Most of the Wording

The best thing about having a general cover letter is that you can keep almost 90% of the wording the same, and still create a personalized cover letter.

But how do you do this?

You can do this by creating spots within the document for personalization, like spaces where you can put in your hiring manager's name, the name of the company that you're applying for, as well as the position's name.

If you want to go one step further, skim over the company's vision and values, which you can easily find in a job description.

With an easy-to-follow, plug-and-play cover letter for multiple jobs, you can cut the work down from almost a half an hour to several minutes.

This way, you can crank out several cover letters for different job applications.

2. Show That You've Read the Job Description

Cover letters and resumes are completely different animals.

Your resume is something that is entirely yours: your work experience , your unique skills , and your education.

But your cover letter is for someone else to read.

Essentially, a resume is a one-way street, but a cover letter is an intersection of ideas and personalities.

Show the hiring manager you care within the first paragraph by learning a bit about the company, either through:

• Their website
• Their executive's social media posts
• Promotional material
• Through people that you know who work for them

According to the Harvard Business Review , it's important to do your research before applying for a position. You can glean information about the culture and values of the company, just by looking through the company's website.

More often than not, you can find a lot of information about the company in the job application. You may be able to find the mission statement of the company.

And please, whatever you do, try to find the name of the hiring manager. Try to avoid using the generic, "Dear hiring manager," salutation at the start of your cover letter.

3. Quantify Your Accomplishments

When creating a general cover letter, try to include accomplishments that you can quantify. This isn't always easy to do.

But if you look at your experience with the last company you worked for, what were the exceptional milestones throughout your time.

Did you help contribute to a major financial goal at your company?

For example, if you were on the sales team when you reached a profit increase of 7% for the first quarter of 2020, share about that. You played a role in that achievement, so mention your part.

You can also tie back into a specific skill that helped you lead to a key performance indicator.

Maybe you played an important role with updating the communications of your team by introducing them to a messaging program to help collaboration in the workplace.

You can point out the number of people who adopted using the platform, and show how productivity increased as a result of it.

4. It's Not Always about You

A cover letter is a place to brag about yourself, specifically about the skills and achievements that have led to your success.

However, mentioning your role within a team can show a hiring manager you are a team player, one that loves to collaborate and be involved in projects.

You can also mention your current manager, and the role that they have played in your life.

5.What To Do If A Cover Letter Is Optional

For some jobs that you apply to, cover letters will be optional.

One bit of advice: sending a generic, basic cover letter can hurt your chances of getting the job.

Instead, either send a more personalized cover letter, like a master cover letter, which is personalized to the business that you're applying for, or don't send one at all.

Entry-Level Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am applying for the position of Drug Research Specialist (Entry Level) that I came across at PANDA Corp. I believe that my academic experience matches your requirements.

During my studies, I have gained experience in the field of medicine and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, during my master’s program, I’ve completed my diploma in Pharmaceutical Research, which helped me in better understanding the processes and best practices in drug development.

Additionally, under the ImunoHelp program, I have undergone various professional and self-development training. Each training permanently added to my skill set.

Having spent the last seven years of my life outside the United States, my home country has made me multicultural. My vibrant experience traveling and studying at different institutions, in UAE, USA, Portugal, and France have undoubtedly contributed to my open-mindedness, creativity, and adaptability, as well as working in a diverse and multilingual team.

I’m excited to have the opportunity to discuss how my skills can help your company grow. I’m available for an interview at your convenience.

Anna Kendrick

If you choose to build your general cover letter off of the one listed above, your hiring manager will take one look at it, and hope that another organization hasn't snatched you up yet.

Work experience isn't the only thing that a hiring manager is looking for. Even if you have minimal work experience, you can always highlight your area of studies and why it was effective in gaining skills.

Creative Cover Letter Sample

Dear Mr. John,

Having recently completed my Master of Arts degree in Gender, Feminist, and Women's Studies, I am a passionate advocate for advancing the scholarship, publicity, and works of marginalized communities and underrepresented women of color.

I was excited to see the Publicity and Digital Marketing position at ACME Inc. because it fits well with my PR and communications experience and skills in gender advocacy, social issues, and political science.

With 4 years of experience in social media management and public relations for SaaS companies, here is what I can offer specifically to ACME Inc.:

Using social media, I can bolster the reach and visibility of promotional events and digital media coverage. As the previous communications lead of a gender advocacy center, I can engage young adult demographics by bringing products and events to life using strategic marketing plans and innovative channels.

I can analyze and harness social media analytics to reach demographics most likely to resonate with the ideal ACME customer.

Lastly, my academic experience in political and social sciences has given me a strong attention to detail, research skills, and precise communication skills.

I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how I am the best person for the Publicity and Digital Marketing position at ACME Inc.

Jack Austin

When you check out the example above, you see someone who is excited about the position, and has learned a little about the company to which they're applying.

Give concrete, authentic examples of why you want to be a part of their team because these examples help bolster your credibility.

If you are a social media expert, and you really enjoy the advocacy programs at a company, you can use it as an example of how you are passionate about driving views to the site.

Career Change Cover Letter Sample

My name is Nicholas and for the past 5 years, I’ve been the general manager for Coffi&Biscuits where I managed to increase the YoY revenue of the shop 10x in the past three years.

I was excited to see the Business Development Manager position for Bootstrap IO, as it is a career change that I’m looking forward to making.

Managing a team of 15 taught me a lot about budgeting, planning, and organizing the workload. I can help you with expanding your team in the next quarter and reach your goal of launching your new product across the United States.

I’d love to jump on a Zoom meeting with you to further discuss joining the team. I’m available at your disposal.

Nicholas Costa

When writing a cover letter, like the example above, always explain to the hiring manager how hiring you will help their company.

If you can show a hiring manager through practical examples that you're willing to jump on board the team, and lead them toward success, then you're going to get an interview.

• A properly crafted simple cover letter can save you time, while also sharing your story.
• Try to keep most of the words you use for each cover letter by creating spaces for personalization
• Show that you've read the job description and know a little bit about the company in the first paragraph of your cover letter.
• Quantify your accomplishments
• Share credit when credit is due.If you're interested in crafting a customizable, easy-to-use general cover letter, then Enhancv's Cover Letter Builder is the tool that you need. When using the CL Building you can receive feedback on your cover letter and craft custom cover letters for each position that you're applying to.

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General Cover Letter Sample & Writing Tips

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How to Address a Cover Letter

General cover letter sample, before you send your letter, sending an email cover letter, review more examples.

When you apply for a job, you may be required to submit a cover letter with your resume. Even if it isn't required, it's typically a  good idea to write one when you're applying for jobs . A well-written cover letter helps you stand out in a sea of candidates, making it more likely you'll be selected for an interview. 

Your cover letter should highlight the points on your resume that make you a superior candidate for the position you are seeking. It should not simply recap your resume, but rather point out details and expand on specific key assets that are essential for success in the job.

What Information to Include in the Letter

Think of your cover letter not just as an introduction or a  statement of intent to apply for a job , but as a golden  opportunity to market yourself , your skills, your qualifications, and your training to an employer.

As a powerful marketing document, its primary purpose is to persuade a hiring manager to give a closer review to your resume than the typical quick scan.

You're in charge here, so highlight the accomplishments and experience that will make you a compelling candidate. Be choosy! 

The Body of the Letter

Start off the  body of your letter  with pertinent information about how you were referred to the opportunity and your interest in the position. 

The bulk of the letter, however, should focus on your qualifications for the job, relevant training, and why you would make an excellent candidate. You can cover this ground in a few paragraphs or take advantage of bullet points. 

Ideally, your letter will be easy to read—use action-oriented language, and avoid very long paragraphs, which can be taxing on the eye. Remember, you don't want to duplicate your resume here. Instead, you want to connect the dots for the hiring manager between the posted job and your experience. 

And, aim to "show, not tell"—that is, instead of saying, "I'm very detail-oriented," you could say, "At Company X, I ran the marketing newsletter, sent to 50,000 customers, from start to finish, ensuring that it went out in a timely manner, included all the relevant promotions from 15 departments, and was free from any errors." 

Letter Closing

In closing, you can include your plans for following up with the hiring manager: “I will call next week to follow up on the status of my application.” You should also thank them politely for their time. Use a  business-like closing , such as “Sincerely,” “Best Regards,” or “Yours Truly,” followed by your name and signature (on a hard copy). 

If you're emailing the cover letter, you can include an email signature. 

Keep length in mind . Your cover letter should not be more than a page in length, and a half-page is likely preferable.  

Sometimes a job posting lists the name of the hiring manager, and in that case, you should address your letter to him or her. In cases where a name isn’t listed, you should make an effort to find out the right person to whom to address your letter.

It’s always better to address your application materials to the appropriate hiring manager.

If you can’t find his or her name by reviewing the company's corporate website or calling their front office, you may use the  address of the company  and an alternative salutation, such as “Dear Hiring Manager." Here are tips for how to address a cover letter , along with helpful examples.

You can use this sample as a model to write a cover letter.  Download the template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below. Use this sample as inspiration—do not copy it directly. 

General Cover Letter (Text Version)

Adam Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 adam.applicant@email.com

July 14, 2020

Beauford Lee Head of Academic Affairs Business City College 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

I am writing in reply to the classified ad you posted seeking to fill the position of Graduate Student Advisor for the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree program at ABC College.

Having earned my Master of Arts degree in Academic Advising from XYZ University, I understand the importance for informed academic counseling and program planning in a higher education environment.

I have also experienced first-hand the comforting effect of being able to contact an advisor who genuinely cares for the professional growth and success of students.

During my career as an electrician prior to my graduate studies, I was elected Chairman of the Executive Board where I sat as the union’s representative to the apprenticeship advisory board. In this capacity, I was able to be an effective advisor to apprentices who were experiencing scholastic problems that threatened their future in the industry. I particularly enjoyed working with older apprentices who were seeking a career change and had problems adjusting to the obligations of work, school, and family life.

I believe that both my educational background in Academic Advising and my work-related duties of counseling and advising students enrolled in learning programs qualify me for consideration for the position of Graduate Student Advisor. I look forward to discussing how my skills can be of value to ABC College as it prepares to move into the new millennium. Thank you for your time, consideration, and forthcoming response.

Adam Applicant (hard copy letter)

Adam Applicant

Always carefully proofread your letter. The last thing you want to do is make a typo in the name of the company! Also confirm that you have the email or snail mail address correct. 

It can be helpful to also take one last look at the job posting. Review the job requirements , and then confirm that your letter shows that you fit the bill. For a second opinion, you can reach out to a friend and ask for feedback on the letter. 

When you're sending your cover letter by email you don't need to include the employer contact information or your contact information at the top of the letter. Instead, list your contact information in your email signature under your name.

Looking for more examples of how to write a cover letter? Review  more cover letter samples  for a variety of career fields and employment levels, including an internship cover letter sample, as well as entry-level, targeted, and email cover letters.

The 46 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Published: May 22, 2024

I’ve sent plenty of cover letters throughout my career, so I know it isn’t usually fun to write one. Fortunately, the cover letter examples I painstakingly gathered below show that it’s possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.

I was shocked upon learning 45% of job seekers don’t include a cover letter when applying for a job. I definitely don’t recommend following the crowd on this matter because your cover letter is a chance to tell the stories your resume only outlines.

It’s an opportunity for you to highlight your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.

Are you ready to showcase your unique skills and experience? Or are you looking for more tips and cover letter inspiration?

Keep reading for 40+ cover letter examples, then check out tips for cover letter formatting and what makes a cover letter great.

Table of Contents

Customizable Cover Letter Examples

Best cover letter examples, short cover letter examples, creative cover letter examples, job cover letter examples, career cover letter examples, what’s on a cover letter, what makes a great cover letter.

In a hurry for a cover letter example you can download and customize? Check out the ones below from HubSpot’s cover letter template kit .

1. Standard Cover Letter Example

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

What does a good cover letter look like in practice, and how can you make yours stand out? I found six examples from job seekers who decided to do things a bit differently.

Note: Some of these cover letters include real company names and NSFW language that I've covered up.

4. The Cover Letter That Explains ‘Why,’ Not Just ‘How’

You may already know how to talk about how you’ll best execute a certain role in your cover letter. But there’s another question you might want to answer: Why the heck do you want to work here?

The Muse , a career guidance site, says that it’s often best to lead with the why — especially if it makes a good story.

I advise against blathering on and on, but a brief tale that illuminates your desire to work for that particular employer can really make you stand out.

26. Law Cover Letter Example

In an increasingly digitized world, where customer-centric strategies are vital for business success, I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot. I have some experience in marketing and can help your clients grow their businesses."

Relevant Professional Experience

It can be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job. After all, it‘s about your experience, isn’t it? But it's not enough to rephrase the work history in your resume.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking to fill a specific role, so you need to show how your experience translates to their unique needs.

So, the body of a great cover letter should showcase the specific professional experiences that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills that directly relate to what the job needs.

To speed up this part of the cover letter writing process, start by creating a list of your transferable skills . Drafting this list can help you quickly focus on the skills to highlight in your cover letter.

Then, use AI tools to summarize job descriptions and narrow in on where your experience and the needs of the role you're applying for overlap. This post is full of useful AI assistant tools if you're new to AI.

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

“At [Company Name], I had the opportunity to assist a global ecommerce retailer in enhancing their online customer experience. By conducting in-depth market research and customer journey mapping, I identified pain points and areas of improvement in their website navigation and user interface.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

“I also worked with an ecommerce retailer to improve the customer experience. We did some surveys and training, and they were happy with the results.”

Useful Examples

To make your cover letter stand out, add specific examples that show how you've solved problems or gotten results in past roles.

Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using data to give the reader a clear understanding of your impact.

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

“I lead a team of five content writers while increasing website traffic by 18% year-over-year.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

“I have a great track record of leadership and achieving fantastic results.”

Research and Company Knowledge

Hiring teams aren‘t hiring anyone with the skills to do the job. They’re hiring a person they'll work alongside at their specific company.

So, to show that you‘re not just looking for any job anywhere, share your knowledge of the company’s industry, values, and culture in your cover letter.

Spend some time on the company website and take notes on what makes this business interesting to you and why you would want to work there.

Then, explain how your skills align with the company's mission and goals and explain how you could add to their chances of success. This will showcase your interest in the company and help them see if you are a good cultural fit.

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

“I was particularly drawn to HubSpot not only for its industry-leading solutions but also for its exceptional company culture. HubSpot's commitment to employee development and fostering a collaborative environment is evident in its recognition as a top workplace consistently. I strongly believe that my passion for continuous learning, self-motivation, and dedication to contributing to a team will make me a valuable asset to HubSpot.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

“I have been inspired by HubSpot's commitment to inbound marketing and its comprehensive suite of solutions. HubSpot's dedication to providing valuable content and fostering meaningful relationships aligns with my own values and aspirations.”

Clear Writing

Your cover letter needs to pack in a lot of important information. But it's also important that your cover letter is clear and concise.

To accomplish this, use professional but easy-to-understand language. Be sure to remove any grammar or spelling errors and avoid lengthy paragraphs and avoid jargon or overly technical language.

You may also want to use bullet points to make your letter easier to skim. Then, proofread your cover letter for clarity or ask a friend to proofread it for you.

• Guide to Becoming a Better Writer
• Tips for Simplifying Your Writing

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

"In addition to my academic accomplishments, I gained valuable practical experience through internships at respected law firms.

Working alongside experienced attorneys, I assisted in providing legal support to clients. This hands-on experience helped me develop a deep understanding of client needs and enhanced my ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

"Furthermore, as a complement to my academic accomplishments, I have garnered invaluable practical experience through internships at esteemed law firms.

Throughout these placements, I actively collaborated with seasoned attorneys to conduct due diligence and furnish clients with comprehensive legal support. Notably, these experiences fostered a profound comprehension of client necessities, whilst honing my legal acumen to articulately convey intricate legal principles within a lucid and concise framework, adhering to applicable precedents and statutes of limitations."

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

Find ways to convey your passion for the role and how excited you are to contribute to the company you're applying to. At the same time, make sure your interest feels authentic and outline how it aligns with your career goals.

Your ultimate goal is an enthusiastic letter that feels honest and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Showing excitement in writing doesn't come naturally for everyone. A few tips that can help you boost the genuine enthusiasm in your letter:

• Record audio of yourself speaking about the role, then use voice-to-text technology to transcribe and add these sections to your letter.
• Choose your words carefully .
• Write in active voice.

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

“I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Organization Name] as an accountant. My combination of technical proficiency, eagerness to learn, and strong attention to detail make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that my dedication, reliability, and passion for accounting will contribute to the continued success of your organization.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

“Honestly, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to reconciliations, financial statement analysis, and tax regulations! Engaging in spirited discussions with professors and classmates has allowed me to foster an unbreakable bond with the fascinating world of accounting, and I'm positively bursting with enthusiasm at the prospect of applying my skills in a professional setting.”

Memorable Conclusion

End your cover letter on a strong note. Summarize your top qualifications, restate your interest in the position, and express your interest in future communication.

Then, thank your reader for their time and consideration and include your contact information for easy follow-up.

To make your conclusion memorable, think about what parts of your letter you‘d most like the hiring manager to keep top of mind. Then, consider your word choice and phrasing. If you’re feeling stuck, this list of ways to close an email can help.

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Greenpeace. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Together, let's make a lasting impact on our planet.

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further and how I can contribute to Greenpeace's mission. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

I’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search.

But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data I’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

I certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will.

So, get inspired by these examples and templates. Write an incredible cover letter that shows the hiring team at your dream job exactly who you are.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

How to Start a Cover Letter That Gets You Your Dream Job

General Cover Letter: 15 Cover Letter Templates to Perfect Your Next Job Application

Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [Examples & Template]

Letter of Interest Tips, Templates & Examples [A 2023 Guide]

The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Cover Letter

Eight Cover Letter Greetings for Every Situation

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• Generic Cover Letter

Good Generic Cover Letter

Sample generic cover letter. It is always advisable to personalize your general cover letter for the target job opportunity. However, there are  situations when it is appropriate to use a general cover letter. These are usually instances where you are not submitting your resume in response to a specific job posting or to a specific employer.

You can use a general cover letter when you go to a job fair and you are giving your resume and cover letter to a number of potential employers for different jobs.

You can also make use of the generic cover letter when you upload your resume and cover letter to a general job board or submit your resume to a recruitment agency to help you find a job.

If you are respond to an online job posting or networking with a specific potential employer it is important to customize your cover letter to each employer and each job opportunity to show how you fit the job and company requirements.

What is the best generic cover letter greeting?

When you have to use a generic greeting there a number of suitable options.

Dear Employer

Dear Sir or Madam

To Whom it May Concern

Some people use the salutation Dear Hiring Manager. This can be an issue if the person who reads the letter does not have that title. 

In an all purpose cover letter the first section of your cover letter should include all the information on how the employer can contact you.

The body of your generic cover letter should include:

• the special skills and knowledge you have that result in successful job performance
• the education and qualifications that have prepared you to successfully carry out work-related tasks
• the strengths you have that make you an asset to any employer
• your work-related achievements

Good example of a generic cover letter

I am a hard-working and determined professional seeking an opportunity to succeed in a dynamic company such as yours. I am confident that my knowledge, ability and experience allow me to deliver successful results for any company in a range of administrative positions

Please allow me to highlight my key skills:

• able to effectively manage my time through careful planning and organization of work activities
• an aptitude for identifying and resolving problems efficiently
• excellent communication skills that result in positive interpersonal relationships
• a track record of meeting deadlines and producing accurate work of a high standard
• proven ability to make sound decisions based on valid information
• the capacity to learn and and apply new information quickly and accurately
• strong computer skills with proficiency in MS Office

I am convinced that I can be an asset in any position requiring hard work, enthusiasm and reliability and I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.

The enclosed resume expands on my qualifications and experience.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Janet Smith

What to focus on in your general cover letter

When writing a general cover letter for your job application it is best to focus on transferable skills and core competencies that ensure success in a range of jobs and companies.

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Good generic application letter phrases

You can use phrases like these to describe general skills and competencies in your generic cover letter.

Motivation - I am an enthusiastic and self-directed worker looking to join a reputable company who would benefit from an employee who is ready to give his/her all to succeed

Problem solving   - able to collect and analyze information to find workable solutions to problems

Planning and Organizing -  My focus on efficiently planning and organizing my work has proven successful in prioritizing and handling multiple tasks

Communication - Proven ability to effectively communicate with a diverse range of people

Teamwork -   I enjoy working as part of a team and positively contributing to group achievement

Reliability - I approach all my work with focus and commitment to complete the task on time and to standard

Stress Tolerance - I  am accustomed to a fast-paced environment and work well under pressure

Generic Cover Letter Sample 2

All sample cover letters

We provide over 50 job-winning cover letters . Use these sample cover letters for different jobs.

Writing an entry level cover letter can be a real challenge. Use this entry level cover letter sample to get the results you want.

How to start and close your cover letter

Your cover letter introduction should compel the reader to continue to read your cover letter with interest and your closing should compel the reader to continue on to read your resume with serious attention.

Your cover letter intro - good examples

Cover letter closing paragraph - good examples

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